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Steps to Grow a Plant

By Christina Wheeler; Updated September 21, 2017

Beginning a garden can be a challenging task when you don’t know where to start. Taking the time to plan an area that will be set aside as a flower bed or a vegetable garden will save headaches and stress from your planting days. From preparing the soil correctly at the time of planting to weekly garden inspections will lead to a beautiful garden you can be proud of.

How to Grow a Plant

Choose the type of plant that you would like to begin your garden. Annual plants need to be planted each year, while perennials are grown from a bulb and will rebloom each year with the proper care. In spring, many plants can be found at local garden centers, already in bloom making planting a breeze. Choose a location for the new plant based on its sunlight needs. For those requiring shade, choose a location out of direct sunlight.

Prepare the soil for planting. For gardens that have not been planted before, spade up an area, turning the dirt with the shovel. Add potting soil and fertilizer to the soil and till the dirt again with the shovel. This provides the nutrients needed for the plant to take root and grow successfully.

Place the plant into the soil, according to the directions. Many plants are placed 3 to 4 inches below the surface, while others will need to be planted deeper. If the plant has a bulb base, plant deep enough that the entire bulb is covered in soil. Press the dirt around the base of the plant, keeping it from tipping over and becoming unearthed.

Water the area well. Provide weekly plant food treatments to the area using either a fertilizer or a spray-on plant food. Many varieties are available at the local garden center. Weed the area often, not allowing grass and weeds to grow around the new plant. This weekly maintenance will provide a spring and summer of blooms.